Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a leading fatal genetic childhood disease worldwide, affecting one in every 3,500 infant males.

Typical of other little boys diagnosed with the disease, Jamesy was developing normally - enjoying "anything on wheels" and playing with his cousins, said Ms. Pucciarelli. But at age 4, he started having trouble jumping, running and keeping up.

The disease is caused by an absence of dystrophin, a protein that strengthens muscle fibers and protects them from injuries. The motor problems that begin around age 4 progress. By 8 years old, muscles begin to deteriorate at an alarming rate. The boys begin to have extreme difficulty walking and are wheelchair bound between the ages of 10 and 12.

The progressive neuromuscular disorder results in degeneration of all voluntary muscles, leading to paralysis and death. For most, life expectancy is in the early 20s. The sense of urgency to have the drug approved increases with each tick of the clock.

The fundraising event is 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is $30 to skate, $20 to spectate; 13 and under are free. To pledge without attending, go to jarofhope.org.

RollerJam is at 236 Richmond Valley Rd. To register, contact Kim at 201-206-5619 or kimbacook@hotmail.com.